My Favorite Movies

Just knowing this is a true story is enough. You can't help but feel the anguish of the troops as they fight for survival in Somalia. You'll cry and cheer as the survivors make their way out.... Considering the length of the book, this is a great adaptation. This is most likely the best Josh Harnett film available.

Ed Norton's best! A powerful story told beautifully about a young man whose journey into and out of the Neo-Nazi movement grabs hold of the viewer and doesn't let go. Be warned- there is no happy ending to this film. One of the best films ever made.....

One of the most visually beautiful movies I have ever seen. The cast could not have been better selected. The Polish brothers (Michael & Mark) have written the gem of the century with Northfork. The movie is filled with symbolism and some of the most delightful dialogue ever filmed. This is a must see for any true movie buff. For others, it may not impress. Watch with an open mind and an open heart...

If this film doesn't provoke you into thinking about "big brother" nothing will... Gripping, fast paced, realistic (especially in the world we know today), superb acting.... This film is all about being under government surveillance and it's too relevant to ignore. Will Smith and Gene Hackman are the stars, but the supporting cast list is top notch- Gabriel Byrne, Ian Hart, Barry Pepper, Jake Busey, Jack Black, Jaime Kennedy, Jason Lee, Jon Voight, Tom Sizemore and Jason Robards. Who's watching you???? Conspiracy theorists, this is a must see for you.

If you ever enjoyed music by the Beatles, like to be visually entertained, and can just suspend reality for a bit, you will be engrossed by Across The Universe. There are such diverse reviews of this masterpiece by Julie Taymor, but I was blown away. Musicals aren't my 'cup of tea', but this one just comes together. The characters are delightful, the songs blend right into the script and the romantic story is very touching.

I loved this film! Each character is perfectly flawed, dysfunctional and loveable. They are so loveable. From laughter to tears and back again, this film hooks you from the beginning and doesn't stop until it's reeled you all the way in at the finish. I haven't laughed so freely with a film in a long time. This is true comedy. Stellar performances from Breslin, Arkin, Kinnear, Carell, Collette and Dano!! Dano and Breslin stole the show for me. Charming, delightful, funny, dark, emotional--- what a joyride of a film. This is one for the DVD collection.

Once upon a time, Batman Begins was my all time favorite Batman movie. Not anymore... Enter The Dark Knight----PHENOMENAL!!!

It is rare that a much hyped film lives up to or surpasses that hype. TDK more than equals all the hype presented months leading up to its release. With much anticipation and high expectations, this film delivered all I wanted and more.

Plot details are best left for viewing, but if you truly listen to the dialogue in TDK, you will understand that from a comic book genre film, a masterpiece has arisen. Christopher Nolan has perfected the art of putting the comic book on screen. Jonathan Nolan has written a script which knows no boundaries.

Christian Bale is Batman. Bale captures Batman/Bruce Wayne in a way no actor before him ever could. Oldham, Morgan, and Caine reprise their respective roles from Batman Begins and add great flavor to the film. Eckhart shines as Harvey Dent and Gyllenhall is a nice replacement as Rachel Dawes. The chemistry between all the actors help Nolan create a world which works beautifully.

Heath Ledger- the Joker...WOW ... mere words cannot describe what Ledger brought to this character. The level to which Ledger took the Joker is almost incomprehensible. No comparison to those who have played the role before as it would be like comparing apples to oranges. Ledger owns the Joker, and most likely no one will ever take that ownership away. Anyone would be foolish to even attempt. Ledger's performance alone is enough reason for anyone to see this film. Will he receive an Oscar nod? He should for this is one of the most brilliant roles ever portrayed on screen.

The plot, the acting, the directing, and the cinematography are blended seamlessly in TDK. The film is easily the best film of 2008 to date. The action and drama, the darkness of the film itself all make this much, much more than a comic book adaptation. This is the must see film of the decade.

A must own for INXS fans....
This music documentary contains some excellent segments with the band, plus some awesome music videos.

Clay Pigeons is a most under-rated film. A dark comedy that has characters who are more like caricatures, a plot that is strange and weird, yet very engrossing push this film to above average for the genre. A well done directorial debut from David Dobkin, the extremely well written screenplay from Matthew L Healy and surprisingly superb acting from Vince Vaughn make this a must see film for any fans of the dark comedy genre.

An unforgettable glimpse into a world most of us have never experienced and pray we never will... A war story that doesn't hold back, but unflinchingly tells the story of WAR, yet it does so with compassion and reverence.

War is hell. Stanley Kubrick masterfully drives this point home in Full Metal Jacket. A very character driven film that is brutal, harsh and unforgiving. A must own for buffs of war films...

This sensational journey through the life of a serial killer in eighteenth century France is remarkably well scripted, acted and directed. Tom Tykwer skillfully brings you into the world of Jean-Baptiste Grenouille through narration and superb imagery. Grenouille is born with an extraordinary sense of smell, and Tykwer brings this gift to the screen in such a magnificent way, that the viewer will feel they can 'smell' the film. (Hard to believe unless you watch, but it is true.) The movie is almost two and one-half hours, but I never felt bored or wished it were over. The story is captivating and you find yourself drawn into the world of Grenouille, wanting to love him and yet hating him for his terrible crimes. Ben Whishaw is perfect as Grenouille, plus the supporting cast of Dustin Hoffman, Alan Rickman and Rachel Hurd-Wood are perfectly cast as well. This is not your typical serial killer flick. Though the imagery can be quite difficult to take at times, it is not about blood and gore. Some scenes are not for the weak stomached, yet it's not about the violence of killing. My overall impression of the story was one of wanting a thing really badly, yet not realizing what it is one is truly seeking, yet upon obtaining what one thought they wanted, one finds they are extremely unfulfilled. This film was adapted from a novel by Patrick Suskind, which has to be just as extraordinary as the film, and now a book I must read. Highly recommended for the film connoisseur...

Marvelous! Michael Bay and the entire special effects team - I am awed by Transformers. The CGI/special effects of this film are unsurpassed by a film of today. Bring on the sequel...

For starters, I have never watched the TV show, so I cannot compare the movie to what came before it. I just know a great movie when I see one, and this one is unequaled. The plot is respectable, the actors fit the parts, the film is fast paced, filled with action, and the humor is supreme.... I could go on and on, but if you want to be completely entertained, go to the theater now and see this film.

There's only one thing not to love about this movie- the bad guys. LOL Who wants to love them anyway? We love to hate them, and this is exactly how you'll feel.

Did I mention the special effects? Seriously, you will be blown away. I could have gone back into the theater and re-watched this film once again today just to see the special effects.

I simply must own this on DVD. What's the release date? : )

A powerful, poignant, thought-provoking, and challenging film ....
The story is sub plotted and each subplot plays out masterfully. This movie will capture your soul.

Worthy of each Oscar it won, this film stands as a reminder that we must never forget....

Probably one of the best films ever made about racial prejudice and being unjustly accused of a crime. The script and actors are exceptional. This is one movie I will always hold dear to my heart for one of my strongest passions in life is that all men should be defended equally, without prejudice and receive a fair trial by a jury of their 'true' peers.

Forrest Gump is an enjoyable, entertaining and heart warming modern day fable. There are so many morals shown in this movie and I am sure I lost count of the total. The standout moral for me was the importance of integrity and simple goodness. This is well-scripted film, with outstanding acting.

A humorous Christmas movie set in the 1940's filled with nostalgia that every age can relate to on different levels It is a simple film which delivers in all aspects and truly a must watch at least once in your lifetime. TNT normally plays this film 24 hours during Christmas, but if you cannot watch it there, please rent the DVD. You will be glad you did for the memories it will evoke and the laughter it will bring.

M. Night Shyamalan lured viewers to Signs by using UFO's and aliens. In truth, the film has little to do with either. If you are only watching for the alien effect, you will not enjoy this gem of a movie. This film revolves around the spiritual and emotional journey of Gibson's character, Graham Hess. M. Night Shyamalan has put together a first-rate neoclassical thriller. There is tension, comic relief then the building of tension again. Are everyday occurrences coincidence? Does everything happen for a reason? Take the journey with Graham Hess in this masterpiece from M. Night Shyamalan

For the crew of Apollo 13, it was a routine mission that went frighteningly wrong. Jim Lovell (Tom Hanks), Fred Haise (Bill Paxton), and Jack Swigert (Kevin Bacon) are the crew who are in the middle of this whole predicament. Back at mission control, flight director Gene Kranz (Ed Harris) and his crew try to figure out how to bring the crew home alive.

A captivating drama based upon real-life events, with strong performances and excellent direction, this is an entertaining and educational film. Set in the early 1970?s, the set is near perfect in reflecting the time period. The film shows us a piece of the US space program, while keeping us enthralled in the life/death situation developing aboard the spacecraft. If you are looking for some history, nail biting and just plain enjoyable film, this one is a must see...

An extremely character driven movie, with one of the characters being a building, Alcatraz, whose story is based upon actual events- Although the story takes many liberties with the actual events, this is a powerful and insightful film. A real inside look into the horrid conditions of Alcatraz. Kevin Bacon gives an Oscar worthy performance. Christian Slater and Gary Oldham are brilliant, too. One of the best films I've ever viewed.

A true sci-fi action thriller film that will leave you pondering the plot and sub-plots for a long, long time... This film is filled with amazing special effects, it is well scripted, the direction is flawless and the acting is almost perfection. You must pay attention to the plot and sub-plots as you watch; else, you will not understand The Matrix. You will be entertained whether you get the underlying meaning of this film or not, but if you comprehend what is playing out on the screen, you will never look at the world the same.

A film with a highly provocative subject matter that should have received much more distribution and recognition.... Ryan Gosling shines as Danny Balint. This film demands you think about its subject matter. The beliefs and views in this film are portrayed strongly. Agree or disagree with the viewpoints, you cannot help but realize you have just watched a masterpiece of work.

This incredible film with top-notch acting and a dark, suspenseful plot was one of the very best from 2003. Eastwood delivers a masterfully directed film that will keep you intrigued until the very end. The film is so riveting, you might not even realize as you watch that you have just witnessed some of the very best acting ever filmed. If you enjoy dark suspense, mystery and high drama, this film is a must.

This is a must watch in our home every Christmas season. Not just a Christmas movie, but also a 'make you think' film which plants itself into your heart and mind forever. Stellar performances from the cast and brilliantly shot, this film will move you to take a long look at yourself and your life. A must see classic for all...

A beautiful, yet haunting look at a horrible crime- the execution of an innocent man...
This film is flawless from script, direction, cinematography to acting. The movie is long, but it should passionately hold your attention until the end. You will find joy, laughter and tears in this masterpiece of art.

Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind is a work of art. Extraordinary script, exceptional character portrayals, impeccable direction, and striking visuals combine to enthrall viewers with the intricacy of the human mind and all of its majestic possibilities. This film is an unparalleled contrivance in movie making.

A serious crime has been committed. A baby has been kidnapped. In this screwball comedy, Joel and Ethan Coen almost make you forget that the characters of Nic Cage and Holly Hunter have committed a crime. This is a classic and hilarious film. It offers a well written script, excellent direction, great acting, kicking music, and moves at a fast pace. An eccentric film that kept me in stitches the first time I watched it, and continues to be one of my favorite comedies.

Memorable... Classic... Filled with beauty and color, depth of character, heart and soul, this film captures all ages and is a must see. This is a film I grew up watching once every year. It still holds a special place in my heart for capturing the images a young soul imagines while growing up. Somewhere over the rainbow... Do we all not still have that part of the child in us? Yes, a place where dreams really do come true...

This movie may be predictable, yet it is filled with lessons we could all learn about life and treating our fellow humans with respect and dignity. Ed Harris and Cuba Gooding, Jr are both spectacular in their respective roles. Knowing the film is based upon a real individual; one cannot help but have the heart strings tweaked a bit while watching.

This is a must see thriller which journeys really close to the horror genre. The cast, led by John Cusack and Ray Liotta are all perfectly cast in their respective roles. Although the storyline lends itself to a few tried and true clichés, the twists and turns in this film will keep you glued to the screen. If you don't stay glued to the screen, you aren't going to 'get it' and you won't enjoy it. I fear to say more for the ending is the best part of this film, and I wouldn't want to inadvertently give it away. If you enjoy thriller, horror, suspenseful drama, and/or "who did it" genres, you really must see Identity. Be sure and put on your thinking cap when you hit play and get ready for a wild ride.

What this movie may lack in acting talent, it makes up for in the soundtrack. Great music!

An oldie but goodie! Diane Lane is awesome. This movie has great music, a cute guy and it just kicks with the knife scenes.

Gritty, bloody, offensive- yes, this film has all that, and it is a true dark comedy that displays the insanity of war quite effectively. This movie spawned the TV show MASH, which is one of my all time favorite broadcast television shows. Donald Sutherland is wonderful as the outlandish Hawkeye. Viewed by many as an anti-war film, I never really felt that was the overall message being given. Just do not expect the TV show, for you will be disappointed. It is much darker than the television comedy, and there really is not a plot like one is accustomed to seeing.

Sybil is a notable psychological thriller based upon the true-life story of Sybil Dorset (not a real name but indeed a real person). Ms. Dorset suffered from unspeakable horrific treatment from her mother, which subsequently led to her developing sixteen different personalities. This film is most remarkable for the outstandingly brilliant performance of Sally Field as Sybil. Joanne Woodard is equally brilliant in her role as the psychologist who treats Sybil. This was a 1976 'made for TV' movie, yet it is still probably the most chilling portrait of evil ever shown on broadcast television. This riveting and disturbing look at child abuse will surround you with hope, yet sadden you as well. If the movie moves you, you will also want to read the factual accounting in the book 'Sybil' by Flora Rheta Schreiber. (Be sure to watch the movie on the 2 disc special edition DVD.)

Another great look at Captain Jack Sparrow and gang, with more special effects than Curse of the Black Pearl, but it does not bring the 'heart' like its predecessor. I would have loved to see Geoffrey Rush more than just towards the ending. Overall, a very good film and one I would watch again.

Fellowship of the Ring is my favorite of the trilogy. The story, the sets, the costuming, the acting, the cinematography and the direction were all superb. J.R.R Tolkien was a master storyteller and Peter Jackson did an awesome job in weaving the message of the tale into film.

A warm and engrossing love story starring one of the most gifted actors of all time, Johnny Depp... The 'quirkiness' Johnny delivers on screen as Sam is priceless. A must own for Johnny Depp fans, and a must see for anyone who enjoys sweet and warm-hearted films. (A bit outside my favorite genres, but it is Johnny Depp, and it is touching.)

Johnny Depp as the legendary Ichabod Crane is priceless. Tim Burton has created a classic thriller and a not so classic horror. Sleepy Hollow is a brilliant work of art Combining Burton and Depp with a superb supporting cast, magnificent cinematography, beautiful costuming, haunting music and the story of the headless horseman gives us a film full of mystery, magic, suspense and dark comedy. A nice little gem to add to any DVD collection...

Shyamalan's movies seem to require an emotional investment on the part of the viewer. I tend to like that in a film. The Village is no exception, and though torn apart by many critics, this atmospheric film is suspenseful, yet touching and ends with a nice twist. Howard, Phoenix, Brody and Hurt are wonderfully cast in their respective roles. Highly recommended for true movie buffs...